Bradford schools officials today expressed disappointment at news that the England-Scotland schoolboy international at Valley Par-ade tomorrow has been called off.

The decision was given by Bradford City secretary Jon Pollard following a pitch inspection.

He said: "It is very regrettable, but the pitch is waterlogged following Tuesday's reserve match. It is also frozen in places.

"We tried to get on to the pitch to roll it this morning, but it was too wet."

The decision is a massive blow to Bradford Schools FA who have worked hard for many months to stage the prestigious fixture.

Their secretary Tim Leigh said: "Obviously we are very disappointed, but one can understand the difficulty the club are in.

"There will be huge financial implications for the Bradford Schools FA. Programmes have been printed costing £1,200, we have sold about 2,000 tickets and money will have to be returned to those who bought them.

"Also, both teams arrived in Bradford today and are booked to stay at the Bankfield Hotel. So hotel costs have got to be met.

"I doubt whether the match can be re-arranged before the end of the season because of exams."

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